This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Sgt J. Mollohan
to remember
Marine 1stLt David Charles Bruggeman.
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Casualty Info
Home Town Pittsburgh
Last Address Pittsburgh/Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania
Casualty Date Apr 01, 1972
Cause KIA-Killed in Action
Reason Gun, Small Arms Fire
Location Quang Tri (Vietnam)
Conflict Vietnam War
Location of Interment Jefferson Memorial Park - Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant David C. Bruggeman, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Sub Unit ONE, First Air and Naval Gunfire Company, during operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam.
On 1 April 1972, First Lieutenant Bruggeman was located at Outpost Alfa Two as a Naval Gunfire Spotter in support of the Third Army of the Republic of Vietnam Division. For the preceding forty-eight hours, the outpost had been subjected to a heavy and continuous barrage of enemy fire and was in imminent danger of being overrun by large formations of enemy forces.
During the fierce attacks, First Lieutenant Bruggeman remained in the exposed observation tower and continued to direct fire against the advancing enemy until forced to prepare his team for emergency helicopter evacuation. When one member of his team was unable to locate his helmet and flak jacket, First Lieutenant Bruggeman unhesitatingly placed his own jacket and helmet on the Marine, thus exposing himself to great danger from the incoming fire.
Mortally wounded by a flurry of enemy fire while directing the final approach of the rescue helicopter, First Lieutenant Bruggeman, by his extraordinary courage and selflessness, was directly instrumental in saving he lives of several Marines. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
